In a statement released this week, the non-governmental organisation said thousands of residents had fled their homes as fighting between militias from Misrata and Zintan continued for control of Tripoli.
Human rights violations have been documented against civilians and journalists, with property being looted or destroyed, said the organisation.
Sarah Leah Whitson, Middle East and North Africa director at Human Rights Watch, added,
“Commanders on both sides need to rein in their forces and end the cycle of abuses or risk being first in line for possible sanctions and international prosecution… All warring parties, as well as the Libyan government, should respect their obligation to protect civilians at all times and to hold their forces accountable when they commit crimes.”
“Those responsible for abuses or who turn a blind eye to them risk possible sanctions and international prosecution for war crimes.”
See more from Human Rights Watch here.